Things I Wish I Never Said Part 2: Love Your Enemies

4 Things I Wish Jesus Never Said” Part 2      

Most people would not describe me as a vindictive, hateful person. But I have enemies. I do not want to love them.  The enemies in our lives are not usually over-the-top villains with black capes. They can be anyone who leaves us angry or hurt.   

            I don’t like that Jesus said to love your enemies. But I am glad Caz pointed us to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  As he said, loving enemies does not accepting any behavior. Dr. King fought systematic oppression while still loving individuals. Imagine how hard that must have been. 

            So, what does this look like for us? How do we love those who don’t agree with us politically? How do we love those whose lives are outside of what we deem right or acceptable? This is difficult to navigate. Caz reminded us that we need to consider the perspective. We have all sinned. We have all been an enemy to someone.    

   We are children of God whether we love our enemies or not. And yet, when we love our enemies, we reflect our Father.  Maybe some of our enemies just need to see God’s reflection more. Maybe we all do.

Beth Kropf